Imaging of calcific tendinopathy in atypical sites by ultrasound and conventional radiography: A pictorial essay

Med Ultrason. 2022 May 25;24(2):235-241. doi: 10.11152/mu-3101. Epub 2021 May 4.

Abstract

Calcific tendinopathy (CT) is a very common condition caused by the deposition of calcium hydroxyapatite crystals in tendons and it can be an incidental finding or associated with severe pain. CT can be easily detected by first level exams such as traditional radiography and ultrasound (US), which provide information on the site, extent and composition of the calcific formation. Classically, the most affected site is represented by the rotator cuff tendons, in particular the supraspinatus tendon. In this pictorial essay we illustrate various unusual localizations of CT detected by US and plain radiography, in order to provide an overview with the aim of preventing diagnostic delays and consequently CT complications.

MeSH terms

  • Calcinosis* / complications
  • Calcinosis* / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Radiography
  • Rotator Cuff / diagnostic imaging
  • Tendinopathy* / complications
  • Tendinopathy* / diagnostic imaging
  • Ultrasonography / methods